English
Lietuvių
Latviešu
Eesti
Polski
Русский
Українська
Deutsch
Nederlands
Čeština
Slovenčina
Svenska
Norsk
Dansk
Suomi
GMC Canyon: generations, engines, and what to check
The GMC Canyon is a mid-size pickup truck that has been in production since 2004 and is closely related to the Chevrolet Colorado. In this article, we'll look at the generations, engines, trims, and what to check when buying a used Canyon, which is often imported into Lithuania from the USA.
Canyon in brief
The Canyon is a mid-size pickup with a choice of two or four doors and a 5–6 foot bed. It's built on the same platform as the Chevrolet Colorado but stands out with its upscale interior and added comfort.
It's not officially sold in Lithuania, so vehicles are imported from the USA. It's a practical choice for those who need cargo space and off-road capabilities but don't want a full-size pickup.
Which generation to choose
The first generation (2004–2012) is more basic, with a weaker engine lineup and an older interior. Today, it's the most affordable way to get a Canyon, but most vehicles have high mileage.
The second generation (2015–2022) is noticeably more modern: a more comfortable interior, more comfort and safety features, and a wider range of engines. The third generation (from 2023) features a new design, a modern interior, and a turbo engine, with popular variants including the AT4, AT4X, and Denali.
Engines and transmissions
The first generation features 4 and 5-cylinder petrol engines, later joined by a V8. In the second generation, you'll most commonly find 2.5-litre four-cylinder and 3.6-litre V6 petrol engines, as well as a 2.8-litre diesel engine.
The third-generation typically comes with a 2.7-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The second-generation uses six-speed automatics or manuals, and you can opt for four-wheel drive.
What to check when buying a Canyon
First off, check for rust on the frame and underbody, especially on cars from cold climates where salt is used in winter. Also, inspect the bed for damage from heavy loads.
Check the operation of the four-wheel drive system, transfer case, automatic transmission shifts, and suspension. Many pickups are used for work or towing, so ask about previous usage.
For imported vehicles, check the history, mileage, and accident records. Ensure the car meets Lithuanian technical requirements and that parts are readily available.
Trim levels
Trim names vary by generation and market; we list the most common U.S. variants.
Canyon (bazinė)
second generationThe base, most basic version.
- A straightforward interior
- Standard engine
- Often — rear-wheel drive
SLE
second generationMid-range trim with more comfort features.
- Often — a larger screen
- Often — heated seats
- Additional equipment
All Terrain / AT4
second and third generationsRear-wheel-drive version.
- Often — all-wheel drive
- Often — special tyres
- Refreshed chassis
Denali
second and third generationsTop-of-the-range trim.
- Leather and high-quality interior
- Often — more safety systems
- Luxurious interior
Trim comparison
| Bazinė | SLE | AT4 | Denali | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Who it's for | For everyday use | For daily driving | For towing and fun | Comfort and luxury |
| Transmission | Often — rear-wheel drive | Often — rear-wheel or all-wheel drive | Often — all-wheel drive | Often — all-wheel drive |
| Interior | Basic | More comfortable | Special touches | Leather and luxurious trim |
| Price in the used market (relatively) | Budget | Mid-range | High-end | High-end |
Most buyers will opt for the SLE or AT4 with all-wheel drive, while the Denali is worth considering if comfort is key.
Pros
- A practical, mid-sized pickup
- Good off-road capability
- Wide range of trim levels
- Many parts and information about the related Colorado
Cons
- Not officially sold in Lithuania
- High fuel consumption
- Less comfortable than regular cars
Frequently asked questions
Is the Canyon sold in Lithuania?
Officially no, so vehicles are usually imported from the USA. Before buying, check parts availability and service options.
How does the Canyon differ from the Chevrolet Colorado?
The technology is essentially the same, but the Canyon has a higher-class interior and a different design.
Which Canyon generation is the best?
For most buyers, the second generation, as it's more modern than the first but cheaper than the third.
Updated 2026-10-21 · Trim levels and equipment vary by market and model year — check the equipment of the specific car. · Translated automatically
